17/11/2013  Shatin  Race 2

MR MARFACH was slow to begin and then shortly after the start was crowded for room between PUBLIC FIGURE which shifted out and BULLISH POWER which was taken in by EASY GOLD. MIZZEN GREY was slow to begin and shortly after the start was bumped by MAN AND MING which shifted in after beginning awkwardly. After this, MIZZEN GREY was vigorously ridden along to make up ground. From wide barriers, CHANTILLY and THE ONLY KID were taken across behind runners shortly after the start. At the 400 Metres, CHANTILLY was shifted out across the heels of MAN AND MING to obtain clear running. Near the 250 Metres, HUMONGUS was steadied and shifted out when disappointed for running between BULLISH POWER which was giving ground and MAN AND MING which shifted in. For the majority of the race, VIVA GUY travelled wide and without cover. When questioned K Teetan stated that in pre-race discussions with Mr D Cruz, the trainer of STARLIT WARRIOR, he had expressed concern that due to the make-up of the field, STARLIT WARRIOR, from barrier 12, would not be able to obtain cover. He said it was anticipated that there would not be much speed in the race and consequently the field would be relatively compact and therefore it was felt that if STARLIT WARRIOR were to be ridden along to obtain a forward position, the horse may either be left racing in the lead or outside the lead or would be left racing wide and without cover. He said it was therefore felt that it would be in the best interests of the horse to obtain a midfield position or slightly worse with cover if possible. He added after shifting across behind runners in the early stages, he was obliged to come back further to obtain cover behind RAIN OF THUNDER. He said that whilst STARLIT WARRIOR raced further back in the field than had been hoped, this was necessary in order for the horse to obtain cover. He said last start, from a midfield position, STARLIT WARRIOR showed a good turn of foot and he therefore felt that riding the horse back in the field would be less of a disadvantage than riding it in a forward position and be left without cover. A veterinary inspection of THE ONLY KID and BULLISH POWER immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. SPICY SIAM and MR MARFACH were sent for sampling.